Antisemitism in Emerging Adulthood: Stress Factors, Understanding Trauma, and Fostering Resilience in Therapy

This course invites mental health professionals to take a deeper, more nuanced look at how antisemitism shapes psychological well-being—both across the general population and during the pivotal stage of emerging adulthood. Rather than focusing only on theory, it brings the lived realities of individuals into focus, helping clinicians recognize how identity-based stress, historical trauma, and contemporary social dynamics intersect in meaningful and often underappreciated ways.

Participants will explore how antisemitism manifests today—from subtle social exclusion to overt hostility—and how these experiences can contribute to anxiety, hypervigilance, identity conflict, and trauma-related responses. Special attention is given to young adulthood, a developmental window marked by identity formation, independence, and vulnerability to external pressures, where the psychological impact of discrimination can be especially profound.

Grounded in current research and clinical best practices, the course equips practitioners with actionable, evidence-based strategies to support clients. Participants will learn how to assess and address stress responses related to antisemitism, foster resilience, and create culturally attuned therapeutic spaces that validate clients’ experiences. Practical tools for stress management, coping, and empowerment are woven throughout, ensuring participants leave with skills they can immediately apply in their work.

This course has been developed in collaborating with Gesher Community Care.